Mirador provides new download option for netCDF files

The GES DISC data search and order system Mirador provides the opportunity to convert data files from the default data option, HDF (Hierarchical Data Format) to the popular data format netCDF (Network Common Data Form). Because netCDF is a data format, the size of a netCDF file is much larger (5-10 times larger) than the actual volume of data in the file. Therefore, when downloading large amounts of data, it is useful to have a data compression method to reduce the data transfer volume, saving time – and in some cases, also reducing frustration due to data transfer failures caused by large data volumes.

The GES DISC now provides users with an option to use the "gzip" data compression format for netCDF data files. Now, when ordering data, the user can select either netCDF or netCDF with compression, selecting the latter option by means of a radio button.